We got sunburnt at Belfast’s 10 best beaches, and we’d do it all over again!
When I set out to visit the best beaches near Belfast, what I didn’t expect was a seagull stealing my sandwich, a sunburn shaped like my backpack strap, and sand finding its way into places I didn’t know existed.
But here’s the thing—it was so worth it. From golden sands to rugged coastal beauty, these beaches offered a perfect escape, even with my snack thief lurking nearby.
Curious about where to find your own slice of coastal heaven (minus the seagulls)?
Read on to discover Belfast’s best beaches and why they’re worth the adventure!
Escape to the stunning shores of Holywood Beach
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Address: 11-17 Ballymenoch Park
Contact details: +44 28 9127 5622
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Holywood Beach is just a quick 15-minute drive from Belfast’s city centre, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. It’s an easy stroll down to the sand, and the views across the water to the Antrim hills are truly stunning.
When the tide’s out, the beach turns into a mix of pebbles and sand, offering a different vibe as you explore. And if you’re bringing your furry friend along, you’re in luck—this beach is dog-friendly!
Also known as Sea Park, this beach has more to offer than just the shoreline.
Surrounding the area is a recreation ground, complete with a children’s playground, tennis courts, a bowling green, and even a putting green.
Kick off your shoes, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the sights. Just watch your step on the pebbles!
| Pro tip: While it can get quite busy (it is one of the most popular beaches near Belfast, after all), you’ll find it much more peaceful outside of the summer months. |
Unwind with a peaceful walk along Helen’s Bay
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Address: Grey Point, Helen’s Bay, Bangor BT19 1LE
Contact details: +44 28 9127 0069
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Helen’s Bay is a gorgeous beach, perfect for a relaxing day out, whether you’re lounging in the sun or taking a paddle. The sand is soft and inviting, especially when the sun’s shining, and it’s even better if the ice cream van happens to roll up!
With great facilities for dog walking and a decent-sized car park nearby, it’s a convenient spot for a day trip.
The area is well-maintained, and the views are absolutely stunning. Located about 30 minutes from Belfast, it’s also a great reason to check out Bangor while you’re in the area.
The sand is deep and firm, making it popular with both walkers and dog owners. There’s a tarmac path running the length of the beach, with benches along the way to take in the sights.
| Pro tip: It can get pretty crowded on weekends, so if you’re planning a visit, it’s worth getting there early to secure a parking spot! |
Explore the rugged coastline of Ballyholme Beach
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Address: Bank’s Lane, Groomsport Road
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Ballyholme Beach is a real gem. You can walk over 100 meters into the sea and still not be waist-deep—perfect for a leisurely stroll in the clear, inviting waters. There’s usually a coffee van and an ice cream van, adding to the charm.
The sand is always spotless, and even on the warmest days, it never feels overcrowded. Plus, there’s a car park right next to the beach, with side streets nearby for additional parking.
For a more scenic arrival, park a little further back and enjoy a walk to Ballyholme Bay. On a windless day with the sun shining, when the sea is calm like a sheet of glass, it’s an absolute mood booster.
If you’re traveling in a motorhome, you can park for free in the car park near the yacht club, right by the seafront with fantastic views.
| Pro tip: From there, you can stroll along the entire bay. Head one way for a lush, green walk, or the other to admire the colorful row of houses lining the shore. |
Bask in the sun at Crawfordsburn Beach
Address: Bangor BT19 1XJ
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Crawfordsburn Beach is a lovely nature reserve offering access to several beautiful beaches. With plenty of parking spaces and a café at the visitor centre, it’s a fantastic spot for a day out, whether you’re with your partner, your pet, or enjoying some peaceful alone time.
The beach itself is stunning, with a scenic path that stretches along the shore for miles. Along the way, you can take in breathtaking views of the ocean, surrounding countryside, and nearby forests.
The path is easy to navigate, with very few inclines, making it a pleasant walk for all. It’s definitely worth a visit!
| Pro tip: One thing to keep in mind—bring a sun umbrella! There’s no shade, so you’ll want to stay cool while enjoying the views |
Stroll along the golden sands of Murlough Beach
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Address: Newcastle BT33 0LW
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 7pm
Murlough Beach is a fantastic spot, especially if you’re bringing your dog along for a long walk or a bit of scavenging. The views of the Mournes are stunning, and the beach is surrounded by vibrant plants and dunes, providing perfect photo opportunities.
With a mix of sand and pebbles, it’s a great place to discover crabs and beautiful seashells.The wooden-beam paths make the beach easily accessible for everyone. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll, no matter who you’re with.
Parking costs £5 unless you’re a National Trust member, but it’s worth it for the lovely setting.
| Pro tip: The gate closes at 5 PM, and it won’t open unless you contact the emergency number 999. So plan your visit accordingly! |
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Address: 8 Browns Bay Road
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 7pm
Brown’s Bay is a small, peaceful beach tucked away in a lovely, sheltered spot. While it might take a bit of effort to get there—there are closer beaches—this one is worth the journey.
The drive along the peninsula is incredibly scenic, so take your time and enjoy the views. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of picnic spots and stunning sea views. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Scotland and the surrounding coastline.
The beach offers plenty of rocks to climb, rock pools to explore, and wildflowers to admire, all adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
The beach is equipped with toilets and water taps for rinsing off, which came in handy after a swim. Parking is plentiful, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot.
| Pro tip: For the more adventurous, follow the path to the left toward Skernaghan Point for a scenic walk. |
Admire the breathtaking views at Whiterocks Beach
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Address: Portrush BT56 8DF
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 7pm
This beach is truly magical! It’s pleasantly warm and surprisingly relaxing, with stunning white rocks scattered along the shore.
If you visit right now, you’ll be greeted by an array of Velella washed up along the coastline, and you might even spot some ocean snails that arrived with them.
The beach begins near Portrush at East Strand and stretches for about two miles, eventually becoming Whiterocks Beach at the other end—named after the striking white rocks scattered among the sand.
There’s a pay-and-display car park at one end, where parking for two hours costs just 60p, and a toilet block for convenience.
| Pro tip: Just a heads-up—the road down to the beach is narrow, so be sure to drive with care. |
Enjoy a quiet moment at Millisle Beach Park
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Address: Newtownards BT22 2HS
Millisle Beach Park, located on the east coast of the Ards Peninsula, is a popular spot for day trips, offering excellent seaside facilities.
The beach features clean, sandy shores and plenty of parking, changing facilities, and even a small flower garden. On a sunny day, you’ll find many people braving the Irish Sea on their paddleboards, while others relax and sunbathe with their families.
The beach stretches quite a distance, perfect for anyone who enjoys a long walk along the shoreline.
| Pro tip: Just a word of caution—there are little crabs in the deeper sections that might nip at your toes, so it’s best to steer clear of them! |
Immerse yourself in nature at Newcastle Beach
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Address: Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0AA
Contact details: +44 (0) 33 0137 4046
Newcastle Beach, nestled on the South Down coast, is a blend of sand, pebbles, and larger stones.
The beach stretches along a promenade, with the charming seaside town of Newcastle offering plenty of shops, amusements, and attractions nearby. With its gentle slope and the stunning Mourne Mountains in the backdrop, it’s the perfect spot to relax.
| Pro tip: Dogs are restricted from certain areas between April 1 and September 30 when the Award Flag is flying. |
Feel the breeze on the scenic sandy stretch of Glenarm Beach
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Address: Coast Road, Glenarm, County Antrim
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10am to 4pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 1pm to 4pm
Glenarm Beach is a narrow, mostly pebble beach that stretches about 300 meters from a small river mouth and the village harbor at the eastern end, heading west towards the edge of the village.
Nestled at the foot of the Glens of Antrim, the beach offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and coastal headlands.
It’s a popular spot for fishing, and boating trips from the harbor are a must-do. The Glens of Antrim also provide fantastic walking opportunities.
| Pro tip: Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through this charming village, check out the castle, and pop into the tea rooms—you’ll find it’s well worth the visit. |